A Rare Case of Mastoiditis in an Adult Patient

Mastoiditis is more commonly seen and easily recognized in children. However, adults are more likely to present with complications requiring emergency medical treatment. One of the challenges in the management of mastoiditis is recognizing symptoms and beginning treatment with antibiotics early to prevent progression of disease and potential surgical management. This case report details an unusual case of a 41-year-old woman whose indolent symptoms went unrecognized for three weeks before presenting to the emergency department with unilateral ear pain and hearing loss. Imaging revealed coalescing mastoiditis with erosion of the medial cortex into the jugular foramen and enhancement suggestive of meningitis. This report can assist practitioners in recognizing and managing mastoiditis and its associated complications in the emergency setting.